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Winter Weather Car Check-up

Winter weather is upon us! Here in Portland, Oregon we've got frosty conditions and a nearby mountain full of snow for fun winter sports. A few winters ago, some friends and I made the mistake of driving to the mountain without a set a jumper cables. After a full day of snowboarding, it was devastating to find we had left the lights on the car mistakenly and in sub-30 degree temperatures our car wouldn't start. After a half hour of panic, a Good Samaritan stopped by to give us a jump. Now I always travel with jumper cables, extra blankets and some food and water in my car.

A little preparation means you won't have to repeat my mistake: make sure your car is ready for emergencies with the Ready Set Go Kits handy winter weather car check-up.

Vehicle Checklist:

If you need a service, get one now before you find yourself stranded on a snowy mountain pass.

Are your heater and defroster working properly?

Is your battery fully charged? Check battery age and make certain the connecting cables are not loose or corroded.

Test all lights, replace if needed.

Keep wipers clean and in good condition.

Use antifreeze that is good to -25 degrees.

Check your tires, do they still have good traction and are they properly inflated? Check your spare tire as well.